First Time Home Buyers • Houston

Simplifying the home purchase experience.

Do you know how much home you can afford? Take the first step by getting pre-approved here for FREE!

Down payment assistanceBetter rates for eligible buyersNo FICO options available
First-time homebuyers holding the keys to their new home
★★★★★Your First Home Starts Here

The Process

Steps in buying your first home

Here is a simplified view of the path from pre-qualification to move-in day.

1

Pre Qualify

First-time homebuyer loan programs require pre-qualification. In this step you’ll be able to find out if you can qualify, how much you can qualify for and the estimates on all costs involved.

2

Offer

Once you are pre-qualified, you can move on to the fun part – shopping! Here you’ll work with your realtor on finding the perfect home for you and putting in the offer to purchase!

3

Move In

Once offer is accepted and you have closed on your home, you’ll receive your keys! Now keep in mind, this is a highly simplified version.

Loan Programs

First-time homebuyer loan programs

Programs and resources designed to make homeownership more attainable.

People reviewing documents together
Texas buyers

Down Payment Assistance

Make home ownership a reality. For Texas home buyers, TSAHC provides fixed-rate mortgage financing, down payment assistance grants and second liens, as well as mortgage credit certificates.

See if you qualify
Couple reviewing mortgage documents together
Low down payment

Better Rates

With Fannie Mae’s HomeReady program, first-time buyers can take advantage of rates better than or equal to Fannie Mae’s standard loan rates*. HomeReady also allows for lower down payments, no minimum contribution from the borrower’s own money, and has no location restrictions.

Explore HomeReady
Buyers discussing financing options in a meeting
Reduce cash to close

Closing Cost Assistance

Maybe all you need is just a bit of help with closing costs? Many lenders can offer credits to help with just that. Lender credits can cover almost all other fees except the down payment.

Review your options
New homeowners planning improvements to their first home
Credit-building friendly

No FICO? No Problem!

With our No FICO program, buyers who are just starting out can still get approved for a conventional loan with only 5% down. You can get your dream home and build your credit from day one.

Check eligibility

*Loan programs, eligibility requirements, rates and available assistance vary. Contact Bayway Houston for personalized details and to confirm which first-time homebuyer option fits your goals.

First Time Home Buyers

Things to consider before buying your first home

There are many reasons to buy a home, including wanting to stop paying rent, having a place to call your own, or wanting to invest in property. Whatever the reason may be, buying a home is a big decision and there are a few things you should consider before taking the plunge.

Start Your Pre-Approval
Family planning for their first home purchase
Ready? Start with a free personalized rate quote.

Buying Smart

What to know before you shop

Understanding these areas early can help you focus your search and avoid surprises.

Understanding Your Finances

Figure out how much you can afford by looking at your income, debts, property taxes, insurance, maintenance and spending habits. Your affordability should be the first conversation you have with your lender.

Type of Home

Do you want a single-family home, condo or apartment? Consider where you want to live, your commute, schools and the amenities that matter most to your lifestyle.

Ideal Home Features

Do you need a garage, backyard, or a certain number of bedrooms or bathrooms? Narrow your search by the features you truly want and need before looking at specific properties.

Line Up Financing

Pre-qualifying gives you a starting point for the maximum purchase price your budget can afford. Fill out an application, submit requested documents, and ask your lender any questions you have.

Ready to get started?

Our team can help you pre-qualify and find the right first-home program for your situation.

Get Pre-Approved Today